What's that smell? How to clean a smelly washing machine.

Why does my washing machine smell?

One day, you may notice a mildew smell coming from your washing machine. Or, your washer may smell like rotten eggs or sewage.

There are several possible culprits for an unpleasant smell emanating from your washer. Here are some of the most common ones:

1. Dirt and soap scum buildup.

Soap scum is a filmy residue left behind when detergent or fabric softener doesn’t get rinsed away. Over time, the residue itself can emit an odor. It can also act as a food source for bacteria and mold, resulting in a musty smell.

There are a few possible reasons for soap scum buildup in your washer:

• You may be using too much detergent. Look at the container for the specific amount you should use.
• Washing with cold water can also be less effective than hot water for eliminating soap scum.
• Your detergent dispenser may be faulty. Check it after a washing cycle. You may need to pour the detergent directly into the washing drum if the dispenser isn’t working properly.

Be sure to clean the washing machine's filter, drum/tub and detergent dispenser to prevent buildup and unpleasant smells.

2. Mold caused by trapped moisture.

If you leave moisture in a dark place like a washing machine drum and tub, it can attract mold. Check your washer thoroughly for mold and mildew if you notice a moldy smell. Leave the door open after a washing cycle to prevent moisture from lingering.

3. Dirty or worn door seal.

Your washing machine door seal prevents water from leaking out during a wash, especially with front-load washers. However, you should inspect this rubber gasket and the drum for grime and mildew. The narrow space can make a great hiding spot for mold and bacteria to grow and cause a smell.

4. Poor drainage.

When your washer finishes a cycle, it drains the water through a drainage pipe on the back of the machine. This pipe can become clogged, leading to a buildup of bacteria and a sewage smell.

Sometimes, a deep cleaning can alleviate a drainage issue. But you may want to consider professional appliance repair services.

In some cases, a sewage smell can also indicate a plumbing issue. A qualified professional will be able to tell you if the issue is your washer or your plumbing.

How to clean a smelly washing machine.

There are several ways you can clean your washing machine: with store-bought cleaners or vinegar. However, you should always check your owner's manual to see what methods the manufacturer recommends.

Use store-bought cleaners.

You can use several household items to clean your washer, but some homeowners may prefer a store-bought cleaner. These usually come in the form of a single-use cleaning tablet.

For this method, you’ll need the following:

• Washing machine cleaner tablet
• Microfiber cloth or lint-free rag

Follow these steps to clean your washing machine:

1. Wet the cloth with hot water.
2. Use your finger to remove debris from the door seal gasket.
3. Wipe the door seal gasket clean with the cloth.
4. Place a cleaner tablet in the washing machine (not the detergent dispenser).
5. If your machine has a self-clean cycle, use this setting. If not, run a regular cycle with hot water.
6. Wipe away any residue with the cloth.
7. Repeat the process if the smell persists.

Use vinegar and baking soda.

Some homeowners may prefer a more natural method for cleaning a smelly washing machine. Vinegar and baking soda can disinfect and deodorize your washer without potentially harmful chemicals.

For this method, you’ll need:

• 3-4 cups of white vinegar
• ½ cup of baking soda
• Toothbrush
• Microfiber cloth or lint-free rag

Follow these steps to clean your washer with vinegar:

1. Unload the washing machine.
2. Start a wash cycle with hot water.
3. Add the vinegar and let it mix with the hot water.
4. After about a minute, add the baking soda.
5. Let the vinegar and baking soda mix together.
6. Pause the cycle and let the solution sit and soak for 30 minutes to an hour.
7. During this time, wet the cloth with the mixture and wipe down the inside of the washer.
8. Use a toothbrush to scrub the detergent tray, filter and tight spots and crevices.
9. Start a new wash cycle with hot water and let it run to completion.
10. Give the washer another quick wipe-down after the cycle finishes.

Hire a professional to clean or fix your washer.

Regular cleaning can often prevent and even fix a smelly washing machine. Make sure you stay on top of cleaning and maintaining your washer to ensure it works (and smells) great.

Download the Thumbtack app today to find washing machine repair services, professional house cleaners and more.